Baptist Health Lexington awarded Advanced Certification for Comprehensive Stroke Centers

Baptist Health Lexington has earned Advanced Certification for Comprehensive Stroke Centers from The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.

Baptist Health Lexington has earned Advanced Certification for Comprehensive Stroke Centers from The Joint Commission and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. 
Baptist Health Lexington is one of only four healthcare organizations in Kentucky to hold this certification. To be eligible, hospitals must demonstrate compliance with stroke-related standards as a Primary Stroke Center and meet additional requirements, including those related to advanced imaging capabilities, 24/7 availability of specialized treatments, and providing staff with the unique education and competencies to care for complex stroke patients.  
To earn this certification, Baptist Health Lexington underwent a rigorous onsite review, during which Joint Commission experts evaluated compliance with stroke-related standards and requirements.
“This advanced certification reflects our commitment to deliver high quality care to all patients affected by stroke,” said William G. Sisson, president of Baptist Health Lexington. “Our physicians, nurses and staff are dedicated to delivering timely, appropriate care to save lives and minimize disabilities caused by stroke.” 
"By achieving this advanced certification, Baptist Health Lexington has thoroughly demonstrated the greatest level of commitment to the care of its patients with a complex stroke condition,” says Mark R. Chassin, M.D., FACP, MPP, MPH, president and CEO, The Joint Commission. “Certification is a voluntary process, and The Joint Commission commends Baptist Health Lexington for successfully undertaking this challenge to elevate the standard of its care.” 
Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability in the United States, according to the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. On average, someone suffers a stroke every 40 seconds; someone dies of a stroke every four minutes; and 795,000 people suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.